How to Know When Icebox Watermelons Are Ripe

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Watermelon plants (Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus) include varieties such as “Sugar Baby” and “Minilee” that produce fruits small enough to store in an icebox. These icebox watermelons often mature in as little as 75 days, which makes them well-suited to areas with short summer growing seasons. Like most watermelons, the icebox varieties don't continue to ripen after they are picked. If you want them to have their best flavor, harvest them when they are at their peak ripeness, ensuring juicy, sweet fruit.

1

Monitor the size of each icebox watermelon plant when the fruits begin to develop. Icebox varieties approach ripeness when the fruits weigh 6 to 10 pounds, which is usually when they are slightly smaller than volleyballs.

2

Examine the small curly vines around the base of each fruit's stem. A stem dries and becomes brown when its attached watermelon is ripe.

3

Lift one fruit gently, and examine the rind color where it rested on the ground. An icebox watermelon is ready to be picked when that resting spot's color turns from greenish white to yellow or cream and after the rest of the rind becomes dull green. Replace the fruit on the ground in the same position it was previously if the fruit isn't ready to be picked. Repeat the procedure for each fruit.

4

Cut through a ripe fruit's stem with a sharp knife to harvest the fruit. Leave about 2 inches of stem attached to the fruit.

Things You Will Need

Sharp knife

Tip

Store icebox watermelons at 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit for up to two weeks after harvesting them.

About the Author

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.